🌱 T-Dock Reopening Soon + Man Found Guilty Of Attempted Murder

Hey, everybody. It's Saturday in Panama City and I'm back in your inbox with everything that's fit to print about what's happening in the community.

But first, your local weather:

• Saturday: Nice with plenty of sunshine. High: 87 Low: 68.
• Sunday: Sunshine with a shower. High: 90 Low: 68.

From our sponsor:

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Here are the top three stories in Panama City today:

1. The Panama City Marina's T-dock, closed to the public since Hurricane Michael, will soon have its gates removed, making it accessible again. Temporary black fencing will be installed to allow fishing and enhance the green space for people's enjoyment. However, one section of the Marina will remain restricted until fall due to nesting shorebirds, while the city continues construction to improve the dock and other facilities as part of their ongoing plans for the marina's development. (WMBB - mypanhandle.com)
2. Michael Barrett, a transient who attacked a Bay County Sheriff's deputy with the officer's own gun, was found guilty of attempted murder, aggravated battery, and depriving an officer of protection or communication. The incident occurred when Investigator Dakota Merritt confronted Barrett for allegedly stealing $5,000 from a residence. Despite Barrett's attempt to shoot Merritt, the deputy managed to prevent the gun from firing and eventually gained control of the weapon, shooting Barrett in self-defense. Barrett's sentencing date is on Jun. 12. (WMBB - mypanhandle.com)
3. After nearly 46 years as a Bay County paramedic, Kevin French is retiring, expressing gratitude for the privilege of doing something he enjoyed. Having joined the field right after high school, he reminisced about his journey and looks forward to dedicating more time to his family. French plans to continue his work as a firefighter, ensuring he stays engaged and connected. (WJHG)

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Today and tomorrow in Panama City:

Saturday, June 3

• Gulf Coast Jam Festival At Frank Brown Park (7:00 PM)

Sunday, June 4

• Uke Party At Little Village (1:00 PM)

From my notebook:

• Yelp has released its annual ranking of America's top 100 doughnut shops, based on ratings and reviews from its online community. Two of Panama City's own doughnuts shops found themselves in the rankings: Thomas Donut & Snack Shop ranked No. 53 and Dan-D-Donuts & Deli ranked No. 81. (WMBB - mypanhandle.com)
• The speed limit on Jenks Avenue has been permanently changed to 40 miles per hour between State Road 390 and West 15th Street. This adjustment ensures consistency for drivers along this section of the roadway and was a collaborative decision between Bay County and the City of Panama City. (WJHG)
• The opening day of Duplin Winery in Panama City Beach has been postponed due to challenges, such as construction labor shortages and delays in obtaining the Certificate of Occupancy. The winery is also facing difficulties in hiring employees, although they have brought in associates from their North and South Carolina locations to assist with training. They are currently hiring for various positions, including bartenders, sales associates, and kitchen staff, and plan to fill other roles such as marketing, distribution, and maintenance in the future. (WJHG)

That's it for today. I'll be in your inbox soon with another update!

— Lauren Kubiak

About me: Lauren is an Editor for Lightning Media Partners. She graduated from Rowan University with a Bachelor’s in journalism. She was previously a full-time editor at an association management firm, editing peer-reviewed nursing journals, textbooks, and newsletters.